“Turning” PAM’s Chestnut Tree into Art

**The Chestnut Tree,** *standing in the Portland Art Museum’s Courtyard, 2015*

Two winters ago, the Portland Art Museum’s landscape changed drastically when a wind storm destabilized a 100 year old chestnut tree, and arborists determined that it had to be torn down. Many people in the community were sad to see it go. Some collected leaves and branches, others held small ceremonies to say goodbye.

**The Chestnut Tree,** *during the construction of the Belluschi Building, 1932*

Fortunately, the tree’s legacy lives on in the hands of local artists. Members of the Pacific Northwest Woodturning Guild decided to turn the remaining wood and transform it into art. RSG artist Max McBurnett has been instrumental in this project, and has generously donated all of the pieces he’s made from the tree to benefit the Portland Art Museum. These pieces are now on view in the gallery, and available for the holidays.

**Chestnut Tree Ornament**, generously carved and donated by artist Max McBurnett

**Landscape Beneath the Bark,** *Max McBurnett*

**Narrow Tall Hollow Vessel**, *Max McBurnett*

**Last Piece Standing,** *Max McBurnett*

Click here to see more works by Max McBurnett